Downside’s production of Oliver! was an incredible showcase of singing, dancing, and camaraderie. The audiences enjoyed wonderful performances from the very talented pupil cast, that also included 23 pupils from St Vigor & St John primary school, who took the parts of the workhouse children and Fagin’s gang.
Director Tristan Carter said, “Oliver! was a show packed with big performance numbers, tons of humour, some truly whacky moments along with some rather special costumes! The cast excelled themselves, working tirelessly to learn lines, songs, harmonies, and dance routines often giving up other activities to focus on rehearsals. The support they have shown each other has been fabulous. Each and every cast member has given their all to make this show a success and I couldn’t be more proud of what we have created together. Special thanks to Karen for sharing the journey with patience and determination, not to mention musical talent! Also thanks to all the large groups of people that have helped with costumes, set, props, lighting, sound, front of house, back stage, programme creators and all who have had a hand in bringing this fabulous production to the stage. I am so grateful to you all.”
Musical Director Karen Randall added, “It is with great joy and pride that I took on the role of Musical Director for my first show at Downside School. Watching each pupil pour their heart and soul into every rehearsal has been an incredibly rewarding experience, and I couldn’t be prouder of the enthusiasm and dedication they’ve brought to this production. The energy and spirit within the ensemble have made it a pleasure to collaborate and create music together. From their hard work on stage to the camaraderie off stage, they have embodied everything that makes theatre such a special art form and Downside such a special place, I hope this show marks the beginning of many more opportunities to work with these incredible young people and contribute to the rich tradition of Performing Arts here at Downside. Working with the pupils from St Vigor and St John school has been truly rewarding and I know that our Downside pupils have loved working with these energetic and enthusiastic pupils! It’s been a fabulous collaborative experience. Thank you to everyone who has been part of this journey-your support and commitment are what make this experience so unforgettable. I am grateful to our Director, Tristan for bringing his energy and humour to our rehearsals each week. Here’s to the first of many more shows, and to the power of musical theatre to bring us together!
Chris Chorley, Head of St Vigor & St John Primary School, shared their enthusiasm:
“A massive ‘Thank You’ to all for enabling this experience for our pupils. I always knew it would be fabulous, but it really was extraordinary. Creative and performing arts are completely squeezed and undervalued in the national curriculum. There’s no space, funding but worst of all respect given to what I know is a vital area. We work hard at St Vigor and St John to make up this difference independently and try to provide our pupils with all sorts of opportunities but our Oliver! experience was of another level again. There are pupils for whom this stuff will be transformative and our appreciation for that is profound. Our parents, grandparents and friends who came to see it were all of course completely wowed! As much as I want to celebrate all of your kindness, expertise and hard work in making everything happen, I am going to reserve my biggest appreciation for the Downside pupils who were so thoughtful, giving and inspirational to ours. A really unique experience.”
Categories: Downside School School News
